2. Outline the nature and effects on the phenotype of numerical and structural changes of chromosomes.

3. Discern how meiosis and recombination underpin genetic variation.

4. Construct, test statistically and interpret linkage maps.

Brief description

Chromosomes carry genes with great precision and fidelity between cell cycles, and from one generation to the next. This module explores how chromosomes have evolved to be proficient vehicles of inheritance, and how differences and changes in chromosome number and structure have important implications for speciation and the fitness of eukaryotic organisms. It also shows how chromosomes provide the environment for the expression and recombination of genes, and how chromosomes underpin sex determination and the evolution of breeding systems. Practical classes complement the lecture series, in which model organisms are used to demonstrate the principles and practice of genetic mapping.